The U.S. economy has undergone rapid structural change in the last two decades.  An economy previously characterized by the production and distribution of goods and the provision of localized services has transformed into an economy increasingly characterized by the production and distribution of information and the provision of creative services. 

Along with structural changes in the economy has come a transformation in economic development policy. The information-based economy requires highly educated and skilled workers, an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and small businesses, policies that effectively address infrastructure and public service challenges, persistent innovation, and the input and support of the community at large.  Recent approaches to economic development have focused on these challenges rather than on traditional firm recruiting.

Unfortunately, the new economic development approach has largely underserved rural and low-and-moderate income urban communities. Additional research and identification of well-developed practices is warranted.  Economic development in these underserved communities presents unique opportunities and challenges which need to be addressed if policy intervention is to be successful. 

This conference will bring together the latest research and practice in economic development in underserved communities in an effort to foster thinking on relevant issues and highlight best practices in the application of economic development research, practice, and policy. The conference will explore the groundwork necessary for transitioning rural communities and low-and-moderate income communities into the new economy.

Presentations and papers are now available for this September 9 - 10 event in Kansas City.